I have been having problems with my heart skipping beats, or at least that's what it felt like. I have talked to my doctor about this and she had me wear a heart monitor for 24 hours. Of course while I was wearing it, it only happened once so she told me not to worry about it. It seemed to get better for a few months but has recently become worse again. I have had episodes last over an hour at a time and it is a very uncomfortable feeling. When should I be concerned? I've left messages for my doctor and she doesn't seemed concerned enough to call me back but something doesn't seem right.

These skips are significant if one has major heart disease. If you have a good, healthy heart, the skips are not usually serious. Caffeine, alcohol, smoking, stress, lack of sleep or sleep apnea can contribute. Of course a medicine like flecainide usually suppresses these extra beats. Please consult with your doctor about your uncomfortable symptoms.